Yam Mask Item Number: Ie383 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
A bulging conical helmet style mask of woven rattan with a large crest for a nose and concentric rings for eyes. The back is open at lower bottom; the inside is unpainted. Exterior has geometric zig-zag designs around face, and block of colour on top of head. Black painted conical 'ears', one each side. A leather loop hangs from the top, a woven loop is at the tip of the nose.
History Of Use
At festivals following the yam harvest, the masks may be worn by new initiates or may cover prize yams. This reflects the association of yams with man. Only the dancer who personifies the spirit, Baba-tagwe, could wear the masks. The mask was decorated with flowers and orange berries, while the dancer's body was hidden with shredded sago leaves. Elders gave him presents of yams, etc., which he would place by the ngwalndu in the spirit house to ensure a good crop the next year. Unlike Tamberan House masks, a Tumbuan mask could be viewed by the whole village, including women and children.
Cultural Context
festival
Item History
- Made in Papua New Guinea ?
- Owned by Alan F. Pierce before March 21, 1980
- Received from Alan F. Pierce (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Donations Fund (Funding source) on March 21, 1980
What
Who
- Culture
- New Guinea
- Previous Owner
- Alan F. Pierce
- Received from
- Alan F. Pierce (Seller) and Museum of Anthropology Donations Fund (Funding source)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Papua New Guinea ?
When
- Ownership Date
- before March 21, 1980
- Acquisition Date
- on March 21, 1980
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 72
- Accession Number
- 0619/0028